Free checklist
Prepared for your appointment.
Appointments are short. A little preparation helps you say what matters and leave with answers. Print this page or keep it open on your phone.
Before the appointment
- Write down your three most important concerns, in your own words.
- For each one: since when, how often (per day, week or night), and how much it affects work, sleep or relationships.
- Note your periods for the last few months: dates, how heavy, anything unusual such as bleeding between periods.
- List every medication, contraception, supplement and treatment you use or have tried, with the dose and since when.
- Note anything relevant in your family history, for example breast cancer, blood clots, heart disease or osteoporosis.
- Write down what you want to leave with: an explanation, a test, a referral, information about options.
Questions you might ask
- Could my symptoms be related to perimenopause or menopause? What else could explain them?
- Which options exist for me, with and without hormones? What are the benefits and risks for me personally?
- Is there anything you'd like me to track until our next appointment?
- Which symptoms or changes should make me come back sooner?
- When should we review how things are going?
During the appointment
- Start with your top concern, not with the smallest one.
- It's okay to read from your notes, and to ask the doctor to slow down or repeat.
- If you feel dismissed, say so calmly and ask what would change their view, or ask for a second opinion or referral.
- Write down the answers, or bring someone with you.
Don't wait for an appointment if…
you bleed again after 12 months without a period, have chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, a painful swollen leg, signs of a stroke, or thoughts of harming yourself. Get medical help straight away.